A great help to any Bible study is the use of a concordance. Although Philadelphia is the only church as a whole that Jesus promises to rescue from the hour of temptation, He reveals that among those taken to heaven will be some from Sardis (Rev. Paul mentions about 20 personalities in the context of faith. Using a concordance, one can search out key words related to any one of these doctrines. Second, as a result of Abrahams trust in God, he became a friend of God (Isaiah 41:8). Though mankind was given the mandate to have dominion over (that is, to care for) all of creation, we have not done a good job. It also highlights the parallels with the modern-day spiritual Laodiceans. Sometimes for this kind of study a modern translation that flows better than the King James Version might be helpful. Officially, church historians recognize seven ecumenical church councils held between A.D. 325 and A.D. 787. Apollos, for example, didnt have any Bible helps, yet he was mighty in the scriptures (Acts 18:24). We will start at 7:00pm at 3269 Independence Pkwy, Plano Tx. There is always a righteous choice to be made if we are willing to seek it. There are many exciting ways to study the Bible that will enrich your life! A fascinating study would be to read through the gospels with particular focus on Jesus Christ and His reactions under different circumstances. 2 Corinthians 11:13-14 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. Citizens lined the streets applauding while the aroma of celebratory incense filled the air. If someone compliments you on a job well done, do you refuse to take credit or receive their compliment? Plain Answers. Ezekiel is the prophet of the glory of the Lord. Mr. Armstrong said that one purpose for Church services is to instruct us sufficiently so that we can teach others in the World Tomorrow. Useful knowledge will always humble us and prepare us to be in Gods Family. It will teach you why the Bible is true, teach you how to study more effectively, and answer some of life's greatest questions. Commentaries are more apt to be off track than other Bible helps because the authors have more room to insert their own thoughts and ideas. If so, you might be neglecting a vitally important aspect of Christian living! Snowfall in the winter and melting snow in the spring are critical factors in replenishing shrinking reservoirs. He traces Christs genealogy to King David and refers to Him as the Son of David seven times. . America is full of them. A Place of Safety? We serve the same God who said: And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. We can study their livesput ourselves in their shoes. God has placed each one of us into His bodythe Church. The Philadelphia Church of God (PCG) is a non-trinitarian, . We know that Abraham wasnt perfect. It is profound, describing where we approach in spirit when we pray. God can always be counted on to keep his promises (Titus 1:2). The Bible speaks a great deal about virtue, those excellencies of character that imitate the holy and righteous character of Jesus Christ. Francis Schaeffer, And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. And he was called the friend of God. And we see these two churches as the models throughout all of church history of good, solid, regenerate, faithful churches. The Philadelphians have had to knock because they have only a little strength, and they know it. Then review them at least one more time, perhaps the following Sabbath before services. Over 98,000 students from around the world have enrolled in this unique, 36-lesson course of biblical understanding. We can talk about what He has taught us and rehearse it with Him. The magazines name illustrates that the material within is intended for royalty! Laodicea earned its wealth in the textile industry in the production of black wool [see Revelation 3:18, white garments contrasted] and in the banking industry. As you do, you may want to group the scriptures into categories that answer the questions what, why, when, who, where and how. And he encouraged his readers not to make the same mistake he had made (verses 9-10). They are the spiritual food we need in order to grow spiritually (John 6:55-59, 63 and 1 Peter 2:2). A Lydian city founded by Attalus II Philadelphus (159-138 b.c. Young's Literal Translation shows this emphasis: "I have known thy works; lo, I have set before thee a dooropened, and no one is able to shut it, because thou hast a little power, and didst keep my word, and didst not deny my name" (emphasis ours). Our God has given us a most valuable treasure chest filled with priceless treasurethe words of eternal life! Are You a Prisoner of Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. As our lives center on God, giving priority to hearing His voice and reading His Word, we become bolder in sharing our faith. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. We are currently meeting at the Homewood Suites at 4109 Walnut Street in Philadelphia. Privacy Policy, Then God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth. The First Great Awakening (sometimes Great Awakening) or the Evangelical Revival was a series of Christian revivals that swept Britain and its thirteen North American colonies in the 1730s and 1740s. Each of us has responsibilities and specific assignments (study 1 Corinthians 12). For more, log onto, 4 Lessons From the Philadelphia Church in Revelation, thefaithfulness of the church in Philadelphia, 4 Steps to Spiritual Awakening From Revelation, Christs Message for the Seven Churches of Revelation and Today, Revelations 7 Promises to Every Believer, Becoming a Cashless SocietyA Financial Sign of the End Times. For example, if we do that with the booklet Who Is That Prophet? Thats why it is important to review and study those notes. What is the Great White Throne Judgment in Revelation? Chronological Bible Reading Plan Often modern translations have been rendered from faulty translations, rather than original texts. The Gr. We should be able to explain each doctrine in terms of what, why, when, who, where and how. Obviously, studying the life of Jesus Christ is the best example. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. by King Attallus of Pergamum, whose nickname was Philadelphus, which means "lover of a brother." For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4). What does God think of that? But what is the biblical view of humility. Matthew uses the word kingdom 56 times. They are not those who seek after earthly glory, like Shebna, but they are faithful in their responsibilities to the Most High God, like Eliakimand like Jesus Christ. Integrity of heart is indispensable. We can develop an overview of why it was written, its major theme or themes and an outline. . Even if they get their lessons in the mail, we hope they will take tests online to be scored immediately so they can get on with the course.. Individually, we may only have a little "power," but if we are faithful with what we have been given, God is pleased, knowing we will also be faithful with great power. The New Jerusalem, on the new earth, is that place. The letter to the church in Philadelphia begins with Christ identifying himself as "holy and true" (3:7). We have the promises of God to help us in difficult days, and we have the Holy Spirit within us. The best way to increase joy in your life is by developing a habit of daily time with God. Consider highlighting these in your Bible and/or linking them together by writing the next reference in your Bible margin. Righteous doesnt mean sinless, of course. J. C. Ryle, I rejoice at Your Word as one who finds great treasure. How the church actually got started is unknown. The key of David It was named as the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse. The deeper we delve into that treasure chestthe Biblethe richer we become and the happier well be, not because of physical riches we put to work at the bank but because of the spiritual riches we put to work in our lives. God commissioned Jonah to go east to Assyria, to the capital of Nineveh and deliver a message of judgment. If youre prone to worry yourself to sleep each night, turn your thoughts upward and close your eyes thinking of heaven and its eternal throne. Hello Jesus! Philadelphia was located on a hillside about 30 miles southeast of Sardis. Every single member of that bodyeach of us individuallyis important and necessary. Click a link to view a PDF workbook: Lessons It can be found in Gods holy day plan! As a result of searching the Scriptures, the brethren in Thessalonica believed what they were taught (Acts 17:11-12). The other three tires are prayer, fasting and meditation. This occurs largely because people keep pushing God and all He is doing out of the picture and focusing on the works of men. Thats how He speaks to us. Bible | Philadelphia Church of God Just How 'New' Is New Year's? Booklets. 1 Corinthians 15:57. To think less of Gods gift would be to devalue it; to think realistically about it allows one to serve humbly. Do the problems and frustrations of this world continually get you down? He wasnt discouraged; he was looking forward to the future. You know the storyJonah ended up in the sea where he was swallowed by a great fish. The religions of the world teach that the law is done away. As we read the Bible and immerse ourselves in Gods truth and character, our lives are changedwe become more like Him. The more we study, the stronger we are, which makes the Church stronger. When language obscures a scripture, you can check a more modern translation, such as the one by James Moffatt, the Revised Standard Version or the Ferrar Fenton translation. They are weak. For decades, the church interpreted Revelation 3:7 to mean the church had "God's government," and the ministry too often wielded this club with a heavy hand (Ezekiel 34:1-10; Jeremiah 23:1-3). Other Bible helps that should be mentioned are A Harmony of the Gospels, which combines all four gospels side-by-side so that the gospels can be read simultaneously in time sequence order. He is committed to caring for us, watching over us, and giving us strength when we are within His will. How did you feel? To get the best use out of [the Bible] for daily life,Give it the best and freshest, not the most tired and dull, hour of the day. Youll be elated with what you discover! The way to cover our sin is to uncover it by confession. People interested in studying the Bible can sign up for the online course regardless of whether they have previously enrolled in the mail correspondence version. Through study of Gods Word, we gain wisdom that helps us avoid sin and the misery that accompanies it. Flurry said. After the pcgs information services department completed the mammoth task of rolling out a new contact management system, Cedar, in May, programmers, graphic designers and writers continued the online Bible course project in earnest. Moreover, the fruit of this interpretation has been exclusivity, comparing ourselves among ourselves, division, competition, and a pitiful supply of loveworks of the flesh rather than fruit of the Spirit. With that background, Paul exhorted believers not to make the same choices the Israelites madenot to provoke God's discipline by willfully sinning. That enables us to trust Him more easily, and our faith builds. He wants us to be happy, fulfilled and excited about our future in spite of all the pain and suffering in this present evil world. History of Philadelphia Church of God. Are you a whole person or a fractioned person today? A vital reason to study is that it enhances our prayers with God. "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man" (verse 13). The Church Of God International provides these free courses to help you grow in strength and knowledge of His Word. 1 Peter 5:5, NIV, What is humility? The Church of Philadelphia is part of the Seven Churches of Revelation 2-3. Thomas Watson, Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. This king had a special devotion to his brother, Eumenes II. He and his wife, Debbie, have served in the ministry for more than 43 years. The homepage of the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course, Armstrong International Cultural Foundation. . On May 5, 2001, God signaled the beginning of a new phase in this rapidly fading age of man. If you want to buy some Bible helps but cant normally afford to, consider using second tithe at the Feast to start your collection and spend an afternoon browsing a Bible bookstore. of Ephesus. Rather, we should think of it soberly and realisticallyhumblyand minister accordingly. This can often spare us the heartache of making poor choices or bad decisions. This is not a put-down but an honest appraisal. 3. God inspired the original text of the Bible, but not the translations in to our modern languages, which can contain errors. What is this open door? That is why Scripture is of paramount importance. Focusing on a particular book of the Bible will give us a deeper insight and context for its message. But well soon put aside the tent of our earthly body, and what a relief! A way to reinforce the teaching we receive is to study the notes thoroughly within 24 hours. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and avoid the pressures of this ever-changing world? Reviews on Bible Study in Roxborough, Philadelphia, PA 19128 - Citylight Church, Christian Stronghold Baptist Church, Lancaster Bible College - Capitol Seminary & Graduate School, House Of Faith Ministries PA, First Haitian Church Of God In Philadelphia And it also happened to Jonah: The word of the Lord came to Jonah the first time (Jonah 1:1) and then the second time (Jonah 3:1). The creation is both a monument of Gods power, and a looking-glass in which we may see his wisdom. Thats the view given by most English dictionariesa deemphasis on ones own importance. To think our temptation is unique is to believe a lie. We should neither overestimate the gift of Gods grace or underestimate it. The rapture of the church is the subject of three passages in the New Testament: John 14:1-3, 1 Corinthians 15:51-54, and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 our scripture reading for this morning, none of these passages speak of judgment, but instead speak of the church being taken up to heaven. Baptism is an important step in your spiritual life and it must be done properly - at the right time and in the right way . Its a fabulous breakthrough for us, Mr. Remember that on a separate page there are common notes for . The church in Philadelphia, They have the key of david 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Each of us has responsibilities and specific assignments (study 1 Corinthians 12). Christ sets before the Philadelphian an "open door" because he has only a little capacity for mighty works, and yet he still keeps God's Word and does not deny God's name by the way he lives his life. There are also subjects like repentance, baptism, laying on of hands, the Holy Spirit, and what is a true Christian. Why Would Anyone Accept the Mark of the Beast? God tells us to study His Word because He knows its good for us. It happened to Samuel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Haggai, Zechariah, and others. Join Kelly Minter in this 7-session Bible study as she unpacks the biblical foundation for these sacred habits along with approachable ways to practice disciplines like prayer, study, worship, rest, simplicity, generosity, celebration, and many . "Its name was given to it in honor of Attalus II, because of his loyalty to his elder brother, Eumenes II, king of Lydia. "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. Upon analyzing Revelation 2 and 3, the vast majority among us consider it to be the best of the churches through the ages. In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility. r/Christianity Did a Bible study devotional today on 1 Corinthians 12, 13:7 on One body, Many Members in the body of Christ also looking into the meaning of Love before the BMX learning stream to somehow attempt to plant or sow any seeds of faith for the Lord Jesus Christ Tmolus. Mark 2:5. Confession and repentance reveal the access to restoration. Both the American and British Bible Societies were organized during . Directed almost entirely at the group itself, and will only be of marginal interest to outsiders.. A five-mile-long aqueduct supplied the city with tepid water [Revelation 3:16, the lukewarm reference]. Two of the seven churches have nothing condemning them in the letter because they are the regenerate church. The humanity of Christ, while at the same time divine, is hard to understand. God's Word contains the answer to resisting temptation before it's too late. A Christian must never rest on his oars, no matter what his situation or era. The annual religious festivals that God commands true Christians to observe are clearly discussed in Leviticus 23. Darris is the Associate Media Producer for the Church. Doesnt it make sense to take notes and study them later? One was an old copy of The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. You dont have to go to heathen lands today to find false gods. As we study and learn to think like God, as we put into action Gods way of life, were able to handle strong meat and continue growing (Hebrews 5:13-14) until we attain the very character of God! Revelation 21:1. Follow Abrahams example as a faithful father by deepening your friendship with God. These can be used to get an overview of a particular book, but the commentary provided can sometimes be misguided because the authors do not have the framework of Gods overall plan for man as revealed to His Church. We have not seen many mountains moving out of their places. Hebrews 11:1, 6 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that . But they also know that the only way to endure courageously (Revelation 3:10) is to seek the strength of God. A fifth reason for studying the Bible is to be able to do Gods Work. Make sure Christ is at the center of your life and that your love for Him eclipses everything else! Look for topics that will help you overcome and develop character. When Gods mandates go unfulfilled on earth, Gods glory is diminished. To first-century leaders in the Roman world, the imagery was familiar: A victorious Roman general returning from battle leading his soldiers and their captives into the city. With the other prophets, the second time meant additional prophetic utterances they were to deliver. He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. Said another way, God is willing for any who want to be saved to come to Him (John 6:37; 7:37). Bible study builds up our faith. If pride expands ones importance, does humility deflate ones importance? Study Bibles identify themes and provide outlines for each book of the Bible along with some commentary, among other things. Again, not perfect or sinless, but in a right standing with God. We all must overcome the world (I John 5:4), our nature, and Satan to be granted salvation, and if we do, entrance to God's Kingdom is an absolute promise! Richard Sibbes, DavidJeremiah.blog is part of the broadcast ministry of David Jeremiah. Jesus encourages the Philadelphian believers regarding His future coming: "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth. He was accused of blaspheming by saying He had the authority to forgive sinssomething only God can do. The spiritual battle, the loss of victory, is always in the thought-world. Commentaries and other Bible helps can be great reference works. Meeting location Hyatt House 3000 Crawford Place Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 Get Directions Don McCoy 410-835-8154 home Email Don McCoy WELCOME, to Philadelphia Christian Church where we worship in spirit and in truth. Oh, to see the glory of the Lord while in the midst of the disappointments in life. How well do we understand the doctrines of the Church? Forgiveness is to be set loose from sins. Let thy hope of heaven master thy fear of death. Many countries coastlines are littered with plastic and debris, and there is an island of plastic more than the twice the size of Texas in the Pacific Ocean where currents have accumulated the debris. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Actually, the church of Philadelphia has arisen already, and it is Eastern Lightning that everyone has heard aboutit is The Church of Almighty God. This daily newsletter provides a starting point for personal study, and gives valuable insight into the verses that make up the Word of God. He still is able to overcome. 138. What was His motivation? A fifth reason for studying the Bible is to be able to do God's Work. Because they consistently knock, Christ reminds them of His pivotal position as second-in-command to the Absolute Deity and that through Him as Steward, they have access to the throne of God. We hope to have the opportunity to fellowship with you soon. That its the same old routine day in and day out? Today, these churches occupied the areas that ranged from Asia Minor to present-day Turkey. . If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! W. A. Criswell, Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you. name of his foundation means "brotherly love.". But Jonah fled west toward Spain because he feared the Assyrians. A baby in its mothers womb is nourished every single day so it can grow enough to be born. He commands us, therefore, to [s]tudy to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Colossians 3:5. They should, however, only be used to establish historical or grammatical facts. Do you often feel that life is passing you by? None of us is above God's discipline if we engage in sin. Jonah was a disobedient prophet. By Grant Turgeon Dec. 7, 2016 The homepage of the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course Individuals in the Bible are noteworthy of study. The apostle Paul addressed that question in 1 Corinthians 10:11"Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition." But they also know that the only way to endure courageously ( Revelation 3:10) is to seek the strength of God. Hensley said the website represents a huge upgrade for students in the rest of the world, especially. Bible correspondence course students living in Africa, South America and elsewhere have found that receiving and sending lessons and tests through the mail has proven to be not only time consuming but also very unreliable.